Predator 3500 VS Champion Dual Fuel 3400 Full Test It's That Much Better????

[@chuckm8472]

My championship duel fuel has been flawless for 4 years now. I have used It for a RV and as back up for hurricanes in Florida. I have only used Propane.

[@HAHA.GoodMeme]

props for not being afraid to do a proper overload test. awesome

[@johnnysweekends]

👍🏼😀👊🏼

[@TommyRogersAlabama]

I put my Predator 3500 up against my Honda EU3000I and it beat the Honda hands down. The Honda ran with my AC on in my RV without any other load for about 3 hours then gave up. The Predator 3500 ran all the lights, AC, TV, Refer, and Microwave with a slight overage. I dropped the Microwave and it ran for 3 hours with no problem and used about a half tank of gas. I'm sold on the Predator if it will just last 5 or more years I'll be good with it.

[@jimbrazeal2029]

So maybe I just got a great deal, but I only paid $550 for my Predator 3500. We had a hurricane heading towards us, everyone out of generators and my daughter needed one. Not only did Harbor Freight bring in a truck load of generators they had them all discounted. This was a couple years ago, but I will say I was impressed that rather than trying to gouge people due to the situation, they actually were trying to help out. Great running little generator, but I do agree, the wheels suck.

[@johnnysweekends]

About a year ago or more they stopped allowing the super saver coupon which would get you the gen for about that price. But so far most people say it’s not excepted anymore which really made it a smoking deal. But yea good gen and yes not a fan of the wheels lol Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀

[@andrewvillavicencio8496]

Great job, I do LOVE my Champion! Drove cross country with it in the back of my RV.

[@johnnysweekends]

Thank you 😀👍🏼

[@mcsjsanders]

Always put something in your microwave, never run it empty. It's very hard on the magnetron. 22 years appliance repair.

[@johnnysweekends]

I actually do now…👍🏼

[@BeefNEggs057]

Gremlins fit

[@buzman7811]

I have the Champion 3100 Max Watts Model 755371I and this thing has been fantastic. 5 years old and even out of warranty I had carb issue and Champion sent a new one for free. They back there products. Mine also has the remote start which is a nice feature when camping on those cold mornings.

[@johnnysweekends]

Wow that’s awesome, that’s the thing I think they probably have the best warranty around. Many viewers like yourself report back saying good things about champion customer service and warranty. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 😀👍🏼

[@tacbear]

My Champion is the gas only version (3500 Inverter electric start) and it runs about 64db at high idle and 58-59db on ECO. I have had my Non-Inverter electric start 4000/3500 Champion for 6 years and it runs at about 68db....love my Champions!!

[@johnnysweekends]

They are good gens and they actually have good customer service and warranty. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching

[@dbgags]

Thanks for helping me make my decision for the champion. Yes its a little louder, but the wheels, handle and dual fuel, and rv ready plug really made the difference for me

[@johnnysweekends]

Glad I could help and honestly they have some of the best customer service and warranty help then most others from viewer feedback

[@tangleass]

The predator beat champion in every test lol

[@johnnysweekends]

Unfortunately the new generation predator is having way more issues when the original was pretty bullet proof

[@tangleass]

@@johnnysweekends I understand. But it still beat the champion in each test you ran in the video

[@johnnysweekends]

True, except one. It doesn’t fit under a truck cover. That style champion does. I would rather have the 4500/4650 champion though. Excellent unit!

[@davidletkeman]

I bought the Predator and the carb messed up before running a full night at the deer lease. Brought it back and bought the champion. Couldn't be happier. I used it all season running it all night long. Never missed a beat.

[@johnnysweekends]

Champion does have good warranty and customer from what many have stated. Glad its working out for you..😃👍

[@luminousveiws]

My Champion has never seen gasoline. No carb cleanup or fuel tank residue issues. Storage is oil change and done!

[@johnnysweekends]

Love duel fuel....and the 3400 version I have puts out almost exactly same wattage as gas...👍👍😃

[@johnnysweekends]

Oh not to mention no jetting issues with altitude...👍

[@lesolson2380]

Great job testing and showing us the option choices with these two great generators! I have had the Champion 3400 DF running for a few years now and still love it! Wish it was a bit quieter like the Predator, which I think they could do a bit bigger engine and a bit better muffler. THANKS!!

[@johnnysweekends]

Your welcome. I believe the new ones will soon be the 212cc like the new 4650 inverter gen. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching

[@ondaslab]

@@johnnysweekends due to the 212cc , would you expect these to be louder? I'm debating on the this model or the new one.

[@johnnysweekends]

The champion on this model uses a 192cc engine. While the predator is using a 212cc engine. Both are good...but i am curious or the weight sound and engine manufacturer of the 4650 champion. Trying to see about that.

[@johnmal5975]

I have the smaller version of the dual fuel champion and it has all the weather caps like the predator. Weird that they don't put it on the bigger unit. Nice showcase still would go with the champion. Just like using the propane instead of the gas.

[@johnnysweekends]

Propane for the win…👍🏼

[@derekkaunelis9028]

Thanks for making this video! I was trying to decide between the two and since HF is out of the Predator and I need it soon, this was an easier decision. I wish the Champion had a display panel but otherwise I think it’ll serve us well.

[@johnnysweekends]

Your welcome..👍🏼😃

[@Volfan812]

Just an FYI, Northern Tool sells an Inverter generator that is identical to the HF Predator. In case in the future should your Champion fail and you decide to replace it and HF is out of the Predator. I have the Northern Tool version. I'm pleased with it.

[@johnnysweekends]

Yes it’s the exact same and they carry a 4500 now which I haven’t seen on the predator side. Although not sure what it is powered by… same engine or totally different…??

[@Volfan812]

@@johnnysweekends I saw that too shortly after I posted this comment, then i saw a comparison video. Same engine. Same size. Almost identical to the 3500 except for slight variations in the control panel.

[@jamesfisher6128]

It's easy to get rid of the wheel lock rattle on the Predator. Take the wheel off and glue the lock plate to the wheel with JB Weld and reinstall. It still works as intended, just without the rattle. You could even make a video showing how.

[@johnnysweekends]

Ahh not a bad idea....thanks for the tip and thanks again for watching 😃👍

[@johnnysweekends]

Lol thank you sir. I think my wife is liking my hobbie and staying out of her hair...🤣🤣🤣

[@johncasey5594]

Even before watching this video, I would have preferred a large open frame Predator, but they are hard to find in Canada, so I went Champion 6,500 8,125 surge on sale for $699CAD. Happy with my purchase, especially with the Motor Snorkel tri fuel conversion $185 and natural gas hookup. With quick disconnects, I can switch between natural gas, propane and gasoline literally in seconds.

[@johnnysweekends]

Tri fuel really does seem like a nice option👍🏼

[@johncasey5594]

@@johnnysweekends Oh yes, if you have a natural gas utility, do it. You never have to worry about storing gas, stabilizers, cycling fuel, etc. I do store several 20lb propane tanks in the highly unlikely event power and natural gas went out at the same time. Gas only generators are cheaper than dual fuel. The kit is $185 and even a mechanical noob like me had no issue fumbling through the install in under 30 minutes.

[@johnnysweekends]

Yes I like dual fuel and more and more are hitting the trio now 👍🏼

[@debacofzomb9889]

Wow that is really cool. So which one would you guys recommend tho? I'm thinking I wanna go champion. Just seems like it is better quality.

[@johncasey5594]

@@debacofzomb9889 It's been 2 years since that post, still very happy with my purchase. The only thing I would change is I wish I had of gotten an inverter generator. Little more expensive, but better for sensitive electronics.

[@berimboplata]

Maybe do a sound check at various loads? Idle sound level isn't very helpful because 1) nobody runs their generator with no load. 2) manufacturers can cheat by simply idling at lower rpm

[@johnnysweekends]

I used to do that so maybe I’ll go back to a true 25% load test then more of a 60-75% load where people tend to run them. 👍🏼

[@PaulGariepy]

Just a note when measuring audio sources for reference it is generally preferable to use C weighted measurements as they are consistent across the spectrum. A weighted has a curved response that will favor certain frequency's.

[@johnnysweekends]

Hmm I thought it was the other way…. Doh!!!

[@randallchittenden6825]

Nice video. Only issue I have was your sound test with a wall/fence behind your equipment. Either case, each was represented fairly. I have had Champion products for over 10 years. (same generators). I like being able to shut the gas off and letting the generator carburetor run the fuel down. I have never had an issue as far as that was concerned. Also, I know that I have an 800 number available to me for customer service and parts. The Harbor Freight does no have a fuel shut off, and there is a known issue with their carburetor, hence the requirement for fuel stabilizer in the manual. I am no sure about their 800 number and availability of parts as that has been an issue when I purchase their tools.

[@johnnysweekends]

Agree champion has decent customer service which is good for someone looking to buy smaller gens. And yes the wall could change the measured sound db but since each plays in the same court, it still gives a good indication of what each will run roughly and against each other. I will have to go to a field and do the same test and see if there is significant difference.

[@rob21]

Wow. That Champion was on my short list but not any more just because of that noise. That's crazy.

[@johnnysweekends]

Its a good gen with a good warranty and honestly its not that loud being around it. But at max load they are both the same.... like a db different which you wouldn't really tell.

[@andyb9994]

I bought the predator and it's very quiet and has been working very well. But I think the champion would be a good choice also, just a little louder.

[@Edwardsjourney]

I own both and I like my Champion more. When I truly needed them after the hurricane the Predator wouldn't start due to a gummed up carburetor. The Champion that only ever been run on propane came through with flying colors. Plus when a tank goes empty its quick change and your up and running again. With the Predator its almost always a overfill. Propane stores indefinitely Gasoline does not.

[@johnnysweekends]

Love it, real world info and also again propane really is great and it provides almost the same amount of max power if you need it. Plus much better smell

[@DiffEQ]

Good comparison video. One point, however, is that your method of measuring sound pressure and then referencing that to amplitude (perceived volume) is off. When measuring power at the source (power amplifier, for example) the decibel (dB) is 10 * log (ten times the standard log... base 10) which means that a doubling of power would be an approximate increase of 3dB. 10^0.3 = 1.995 However, with sound pressure the definition is 20 * log (20 times the standard log... base 10) which means that a doubling of sound pressure would be approximately 6dB. This is because the sound is radiated from the source in two dimensions and the inverse distance law applies (this is not the same as the inverse square law, though many who do not understand it will try to argue it.). So, at 6:50 in your video, that 3dB difference is NOT a doubling of sound pressure, it is only about 1.4 times more. 10 ^ 0.15 = 1.413 Still, this is not the same as human perception of amplitude (volume), as you correctly noted. But you didn't tell the viewer what it actually did mean in that most important aspect... what one would hear with a 3dB difference of SPL on the A-weighted scale. The complexity of human hearing makes it difficult to precisely say, but the accepted rule-of-thumb is that it would take a 10dB increase in SPL for us to perceive the sound as twice as loud. Sound Pressure (what your meter reads) is a measure of Force per unit area. Sound Intensity (volume, amplitude, call it what you will) is a measure of Power per unit area. If you're listening to 6 violins playing in a free field, then it would take 54 more violin players for you to perceived the volume doubling. Yup... 10dB is a lot of increase for a doubling/halving of volume.

[@johnnysweekends]

Wow true sound guy👊🙌

[@beerrunner8153]

I'm a trucker so the noise doesn't bother me. I'm used to an APU.

[@elcompainxendio]

Which one would you recommend for a mobile car detail van? Thanks for your help!

[@johnnysweekends]

For the price I would at other units not that have more power like a champion 4500… amzn.to/3EGUpHY

[@elcompainxendio]

@@johnnysweekends Thanks for your help!

[@johnnysweekends]

You’re welcome 👍🏼

[@merveilmeok2416]

Awesome videos. I am learning everything from Johnny. Cheers.

[@johnnysweekends]

Wow thank you…☺️ And thanks for watching 👍🏼😀

[@merveilmeok2416]

@@johnnysweekends - Thanks, Sir. Q: renting generators is a good idea in California? (Compliant CARB/EPA) - home & especially professional generators for pros’ projects 5KW-10KW. I have been looking at brands like Honda, Wacker Neuson, CAT, DeWalt. What am I missing? Thanks, Sir.

[@johnnysweekends]

So many places like United rentals, ace hardware and such rent big and little gens. From 2000 watt to 50kw and more. The EPA laws in California are about to get worse for all small engines 25 hp and under, if a law passed in 2024 but that doesn’t mean you can’t own them or get them. It just means you will no longer be able to purchase new at a big box store or have shipped through Amazon or say Walmart. As a new business there is still money to be made because gens are definitely needed in this 3rd world state…😅👍🏼

[@merveilmeok2416]

@@johnnysweekends Thanks Sir, for your insightful comment. CA is making some industries difficult and more expensive for users/customers and of course manufacturers in the channels. I am far away from the stores who have been in the game 100+ years, but I was trying to find a small niche to help certain users. That would make me a ‘4th, or 5th world’ in the generators. Thanks for your excellent points. Anyone could send generators from China (with very cheaply,) but there are 2 problems: - no one trust new BRANDS (trust for a reason) and even experts like you still separate the top brands as soon new products are released. Your precise videos show the details the reasons of the confidence of products; - then… EPA rules (for good reasons, for bad reasons and for no reasons too.) If I had the generator expertise, I would have been separating and carving a niche with the PTO from 10KW to 25 KW for rental by seasons (I am in Modesto, CA and there are dozens of small farmers). Thanks Sir. -Aimé

[@JohnSmith-kg3im]

Will either of these units power the air conditioner on your RV?

[@johnnysweekends]

Yes. Mine is a 15k ac unit and not a issue for either unit.

[@enthused7591]

Harbor Freight in general, with their new marketing strategy, has become pretty uncompetitive in general. There are 4500 watt inverter generators selling for less than their 3500 watt. I think they accounted for a LOT more inflation than has transpired so far.

[@rickwilson466]

Covid appears to have killed Harbor freight.

[@nbragtop]

Excellent video ! I am presently shopping for one of those 2 generators for my small camper. Now trying to figure have to get it in the bed of my 2500 Ram. Any ideas?

[@johnnysweekends]

Some people have these small crains that swing out from the bed… I think harbor freight has them. I would really look at the new powerhorse that has more power for the same price as the predator it’s even a little more quiet

[@jlr1938]

Ramps

[@deibertmichael]

Great information thanks. I’m most concerned on Hz. Super important. Why not show it?

[@johnnysweekends]

I have on many other videos and these are all rated at 60hrz. And so far honestly in every other video I have seen I have never seen a problem with holding at 60 with a deviation of more then about .1 If you look at laptops on there chargers some now say 50-60hrz…

[@deibertmichael]

@@johnnysweekends Many as the speed drops the HZ drops. Some dramatically. Would be nice to see.

[@johnnysweekends]

I have a meter in my other videos you can check those for full load on volts amps and watts and you can see hrz as well.

[@mikethomas7138]

perhaps I missed it, did you ever share in the end which one you liked better, and if you would recommend one over the other

[@johnnysweekends]

Over all I do like the dual fuel option when ever possible. And the more compact size of the champion is desirable. Plus east handle and wheels. The predator is known for doing well and being very quiet but honestly for the price of either unit I would buy something else now. Like the champion 4500 or 4650 dual fuel. Here…amzn.to/3uvNXAz

[@francisvazquez13]

What about testing it on eco mode? Nice video

[@johnnysweekends]

Works fine in eco mode but when running those tougher loads lol Ike Ac start ups unless you have a soft start then eco off till ac going. I do my tests with it on because so many people just leave it there and forget it. But it really should be off. Eco is great for low loads and varying loads up and down. Like a hair dryer, it’s not a big jolt on amps it just ramps up quick. Even microwaves are not to bad but do have more then say a higher dryer.

[@aaronwoodfield2925]

Excellent video

[@johnnysweekends]

Thank you, and thanks for watching 👍🏼😀

[@rabbi7933]

I like your vids, good info. Subscribed.

[@johnnysweekends]

Thank you so much appreciated it 🙏🏼👍🏼🤜🏻

[@gunnyd9282]

In my experience the Champion will last about 3 times longer than the predator. Plus Champion can be repaired through Northern Tool. At least they did 3 years ago.

[@johnnysweekends]

Besides Honda and Yamaha champion seems to have the best customer service and warranty.

[@gunnyd9282]

@@johnnysweekends And Champion actually honor their warranty, unlike Wen.

[@johnnysweekends]

It seems more and more viewers are reporting back they are pleased with champion and their customer service and warranty 👍🏼😃

[@dannyboyd1299]

So you're saying you have never owned a 3500 predator ?lol clueless

[@bobg8378]

Michael Douglas champion does NOT honor their warranty! Just wasted over 2 hours on hold only to discover my champion generator has to be torn down and the cylinder and combustion chamber cleaned at my expense, every 500 hours! They absolutely suck.

[@CarlosDelaoGunEngraver]

The best wouldnhave been would they start without a battery or dead battery, the predator will start, but don't know on the champion

[@johnnysweekends]

Champion will start on propane and dead batt..👍🏼

[@pawbin9605]

To napiecie 120 V to masakra, nie ma jak Europa i 230 V. Super 😀😃🤣

[@mikeskeans8088]

How long will a 20lb prape tank run?

[@johnnysweekends]

Depends on load. I think it was 20hrs roughly at 1/4 load give or take but I would have to look again. Takes more propane though because less btu’s

[@johnl5479]

Doesn’t testing these close to concrete walls affect and result in higher db’s?

[@johnnysweekends]

Yes overall it’s makes it about 1..1.5 db higher then on my newer videos where I test in front of my house on a open concrete pad. They are both going thru the same test so it does show data that is useful. But if you put these in the dirt… grass, gravel that will all absorb sound even more, making it quieter. And bushes and trees even more yet. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 😀👍🏼

[@chuckpoz1968]

Need a link on that bathroom sink heater please. The video very cool thank you I bought the Predator Very quiet /great price point 👍🏻

[@johnnysweekends]

here ya go...Im buying another as well...!! let me know if the link work. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DCKFJLM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07DCKFJLM&linkCode=as2&tag=johnny5dahlbe-20&linkId=780711d8ac3db2e4d79076304f880412

[@RobertJory10]

would have been nice if you measured the sound at a full load

[@johnnysweekends]

It’s approximately 73db +/- 1 Pretty much the same as almost every other generator I tested

[@WhatsupwithMike]

Great video! Do you have any info on the electrical meter that you were using during your load testing? That looked like a very nice little unit. Thanks!!

[@johnnysweekends]

It's a box i made from another style monitor with 10g wire. It's pretty accurate but the watts are sometimes off a little but the amps and volts are good. Someone wants me to make a vid but been busy lol

[@chrisnelson6226]

Johnny just curious, but what kind of power draw do you see when you engage your AC unit.

[@johnnysweekends]

Typically when it’s about 90 degrees I’ll see about 1600-1700 watts at 13.5-15 amps. Start up will jump to mid 20’s or so on the amps… But these newer gens must have a small capacitor to provide a power jolt when a ac unit turns on which is why some of the 2200 units can fire up a 15k ac unit such as mine. I also do not have a hard start/ soft start on my unit. Not everyone installs them so I left it off to give a realistic idea of how the generator needs to work in order to fire up a stock unit.

[@maxford27]

I just bought two Firman 2K from Costco that can run in parallel without the additional box. How do I use them in that mode?

[@maxford27]

BTW, I don't intend to use the in an RV. I'd need them to day run a well pump or a table saw or an air compressor or welder.

[@johnnysweekends]

If its the 2000i...they have a L5 30 R plug...twist lock 3 prong. Use the parallel cables.....then plug into one of those ports on one generator and your done. I assume it came with cables and a adapter?

[@maxford27]

@@johnnysweekends it did . I'm getting an adapter that converts the 30amp to two 20 amp 120v.

[@redraiderrider3289]

I would never rely on harbor freight

[@johnnysweekends]

For what..?

[@andytaylor6781]

Champion

[@andytaylor6781]

The Champion is louder but it's really a Champion 🏆

[@sporttiger1766]

Great video. But your scale is obviously broken lol. That would be an amazing coincidence

[@johnnysweekends]

lol I still use it and used it on other videos so still working. I even weighed myself to check, and yea....actually it’s broke🤣🤣🤣

[@mkid4895]

i think the 3400w was just recently discontinued D:

[@johnnysweekends]

Well would not be surprised as there are larger models available at the same price. Was still a good gen but seems like there is always something else coming out so quick

[@aaronvalance]

Link to the heater?

[@johnnysweekends]

Here is the video link... kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZPRZoCiYreCjdE Here is the one i bought on Amazon... www.amazon.com/dp/B07DCKFJLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_MTH5E7C7KVAAK6MBW82R

[@scshufran251]

This is not a very practical test case. You're running multiple space heaters and these devices are notorious power hogs. If you were running the RV's furnace or AC unit, and then, turned on the microwave, the total power demand would be closer to the maximum sustained operating range of 3000 Watts.

[@MrJuandiego1988]

Great channel. Deserves more subs.

[@johnnysweekends]

Thank you, they are coming here and there..👍🏼😀

[@johnnysweekends]

Darn right .....😁😀 I’m trying and funny how others have said that to but I’m trying and I’m sure they will come. I have other vids coming soon but always trying to balance full time work and vacation with family as well.

[@blackpepe]

china vs china which china is bEtTeR?

[@jeffjones4619]

Your videos are well done. Is there a way to use a female spokesperson? Not gunna lie, I get tired of looking at you!

[@covidfartfog8076]

The predator 4550 is WAY better then the 3500. I’ve had both. Noise is about equal.

[@johnnysweekends]

The open frame..?? That thing is loud. Good unit but side by side at 60% load is noticeable.

[@covidfartfog8076]

@@johnnysweekends 60% load on the open frame 4550 predator is not the same as 60% load on the 3500 sealed predator. On the 4550 you’re pulling more so Ofcourse it’ll be a bit louder. But pulling equally they’re about the same in terms of noise. 4550 is a better buy and more reliable

[@johnnysweekends]

Got ya, but yea even at low loads it’s still decently louder. But yea overall it’s a good generator and for the price it’s hard to beat. Especially the deals on them often..👍🏼